Out of my comfort zone

Yesterday I downloaded The Pinkprink Nicki Minaj's album from this year. Now even a year ago this would not have been something I even thought about listening to but something has shifted. I still wouldn't claim to be a rap aficionado but there is something about her that appeals to me. I think it might be her unapologetic manner of doing her thing and presenting herself. It's pretty different from how I present but I respect it. I must admit that I must give props to anyone who rocks bubblegum pink hair and lipstick while rapping lyrics that are sometimes downright filthy. The dichotomy is cool.  She has managed to do what she wants and do it well without turning "hard" no matter which image she presents which morphs album to album it's always undeniably feminine. That's not easy to do in a genre that is heavily male dominated. She doesn't shy away from showing herself to be sexual and not only in the socially acceptable hearts and flowers way that women are generally allowed sexuality but in a basic I like sex kind of way. Although people seem to get caught up debating the appropriateness of her lyrics it seems that many miss the vulnerability she gives glimpses of. My favorite track is Pills and Potions, it has layers to it that show her to be unafraid of claiming well deserved accolades while also showing conflicted feelings for ones she cares for who have done her wrong. Underneath it all runs a ribbon of loyalty for those who have been there for her coupled with cynicism for what the industry does to even the most well intentioned. Maybe I've grown some that I hear more than profanity when I listen these days but whatever it is I'm happy because the richness of musical experiences has increased and that is a good thing.